How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?

Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.

Air Fryer Crispy Hoisin-Glazed Pork Belly Bao Buns

Name: Air Fryer Crispy Hoisin-Glazed Pork Belly Bao Buns
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1 lb pork belly, skin scored in a crosshatch pattern; 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 6 steamed bao buns (store-bought or homemade); 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced; 2 scallions, thinly sliced; Fresh cilantro leaves (optional); 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished May 10, 2026 | Updated Jun 17, 2026

Experience the perfect balance of crispy, savory pork belly glazed with sweet hoisin sauce, tucked inside soft steamed bao buns—all made easy in your air fryer. A quick Asian Fusion delight perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Start cooking

Air fryerAsian FusionEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time35 mins

Total Time50 mins

Servings6

Temperature400°F / 200°C

Ingredients

Servings6

1 lb pork belly, skin scored in a crosshatch pattern
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
6 steamed bao buns (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
2 scallions, thinly sliced
Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to make the glaze.
Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness. Rub the vegetable oil all over the pork belly, especially the skin side.
Place the pork belly skin-side up in the air fryer basket. Cook for 25 minutes to render the fat and start crisping the skin.
Carefully remove the basket and brush the hoisin glaze evenly over the pork belly.
Return the pork belly to the air fryer and cook for an additional 10 minutes at 400°F, or until the skin is crispy and the glaze is caramelized. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Remove the pork belly and let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
Warm the steamed bao buns according to package instructions or steam for 3-4 minutes until soft and fluffy.
Assemble each bao bun by filling with slices of crispy hoisin-glazed pork belly, cucumber slices, scallions, and optional cilantro and sesame seeds.
Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the irresistible combination of crispy, sweet, and savory flavors.

Recipe guidance

Crispiness Control

Pat the pork belly dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.

Storage

Store leftover Air Fryer Crispy Hoisin-Glazed Pork Belly Bao Buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.

FAQ

Can I make Air Fryer Crispy Hoisin-Glazed Pork Belly Bao Buns ahead of time?: You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?: Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.